The first presidential debate of the year between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump was a heated exchange that highlighted their stark differences in rhetoric and policy. Biden, who struggled with a gravelly voice and an uneven delivery, aimed to portray Trump as a morally bankrupt and extreme figure. He accused Trump of having 'the morals of a street cat' and criticized him for his handling of the January 6 Capitol attack.
Trump, on the other hand, appeared aggressive and confident, using his rhetorical skills to challenge Biden's presidency. He falsely claimed that Biden is 'paid by China' and labeled him a 'Manchurian candidate,' while also bringing up the recent criminal conviction of Biden's son, Hunter. Trump accused Biden of being unfit to be president and criticized his economic policies, claiming they have led to an 'economic collapse.'
Biden's performance raised concerns among Democrats about his age and health. He frequently coughed, appeared confused, and had trouble finishing sentences coherently. This performance did little to dispel voters' fears about his ability to serve another term. In contrast, Trump used emotional tactics to connect with the audience, telling personal stories of Americans allegedly harmed by Biden's policies.
The debate also touched on foreign policy, with Biden defending his administration's handling of the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, while Trump criticized the billions spent on the Ukraine conflict. On immigration, Trump made unsubstantiated claims that foreign countries are sending criminals to the U.S., which Biden refuted. The debate concluded with Biden urging Trump to condemn violent extremist groups, a plea that went unanswered.
- Biden's struggle with his voice and occasional confusion during the debate raised concerns among his supporters and campaign officials. Some Democrats expressed disappointment in his performance, fearing it might damage his candidacy. Biden tried to emphasize his administration's achievements in the economy, health, and foreign affairs but often appeared weak and unstable.
- Trump's aggressive and confident demeanor gave him a rhetorical edge, although his frequent use of falsehoods and unverified claims was noted. He focused on attacking Biden's economic policies and painted a bleak picture of the current state of the American economy. Despite his confidence, Trump's inconsistency in facts and aggressive behavior were sometimes perceived as lacking control.
- The debate also highlighted the candidates' differing views on foreign policy and immigration. Biden defended the U.S. support for Ukraine and criticized Trump's approach to NATO and Russia. Trump, however, argued that the money spent on the Ukraine war was unnecessary and criticized Biden's immigration policies without providing evidence for his claims.
- The debate format, with strict rules and microphones turned off when not speaking, helped maintain some order. However, the moderators did not fact-check the candidates in real-time, allowing falsehoods to go unchallenged. The debate ended with unresolved questions about Trump's willingness to accept the 2024 election results and Biden's ability to overcome his perceived weaknesses.
